The sharing economy is adding inventory to Alberta’s supply of guest accommodation without building a single new hotel. Home-sharing platforms appeal to a certain segment of travellers and to homeowners wanting to augment their income. However, unregulated rentals and the home-sharing platforms that promote them have created unintended consequences, such as impacts to property values, loss of affordable housing, and loss of tax revenue. The AHLA encourages Alberta municipalities to restrict home-sharing activity to principal residences, require providers to hold a business license and insurance, and ensure providers comply with municipal bylaws and zoning. Read more on our blog.
On July 17, 2019, the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC), joined by the Ottawa Gatineau Hotel Association (OGHA) and the Association Hôtellerie Québec (AHQ), launched its #VoteFairRules campaign, calling on federal parties and candidates to modernize Canada’s outdated tax laws and regulations for digital platforms like Airbnb.